Rio Ferdinand slams 'disrespectful' Cristiano Ronaldo critics amid Manchester United standoff

Rio Ferdinand has backed Cristiano Ronaldo in his wish to leave Manchester United this summer and hit out at supporters who have questioned the professionalism of their star striker.

Ronaldo, 37, is yet to return to pre-season training under new manager Erik ten Hag with the forward officially signed off due to 'family reasons', an explanation accepted by the club. Fresh reports emerged over the weekend suggesting Ronaldo was unhappy at Old Trafford and didn't want to waste a precious year of his career playing in the Europa League during an uncertain time at the club.

The Manchester Evening News revealed earlier this week that United's inactivity in the transfer market and a salary reduction are among the other issues that have convinced Ronaldo to try and seek a move away from the club, amid interest from Chelsea.

READ MORE: Three issues driving Ronaldo's desire to leave

Ferdinand has jumped to the defence of his close friend and former teammates. He says he understands why Ronaldo wants a change of scenery in the summer transfer window.

"Of course he's not happy!" Ferdinand said on his FIVE YouTube Channel. "You're talking about Cristiano Ronaldo here! I don't understand how it's a big story that Cristiano Ronaldo is not happy with the way things are at Man United. He can't be. I wouldn't be.

"Anyone who wants to win football matches or trophies, anyone who is used to winning and competing every year at the top of the table for the biggest prizes, and then all of a sudden isn't — and doesn't even qualify for the Champions League — you can't sit here and expect them to be happy.

"He's not happy with missing out on the Champions League, he doesn't even know what the Europa League soundtrack sounds like! When